Necessity for an intensive follow-up after curative resection of colorectal cancer
Abstract
Colorectal cancer is the second most frequent type of solid tumour and the second leading cause of mortality in oncological patients. Optimisation of surgical techniques results in a gradual increase in the percentage of curative resections of colorectal tumours. Nevertheless, a considerable fraction of patients (30–50%) suffer from recurrent colorectal cancer. This justifies intensive follow-up after treatment. Beneficial effects of such approach are confirmed by the results of clinical trials and meta-analyses. Follow-up should be particularly intensive during the initial three years after treatment, and should be continued for at least five years. Vital components of the follow-up are physical examination, colonoscopy, imaging of the abdominal cavity and chest, and determination of serum level of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA).